Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has indicated a willingness to engage in talks with Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, should it become necessary to establish a timeline for a political transition. The offer, reported Monday by her press team following a virtual meeting with Colombian media outlets, comes after reports of the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3rd by U.S. military forces.
Machado Open to Dialogue, Sets Conditions
“If it is necessary to meet to define a schedule for a transition, it will be done,” Machado stated, according to a transcript of the conversation. However, she emphasized that any discussions would be limited to outlining the steps of a political process. Despite the potential for dialogue, Machado was firm in her assessment of the current Venezuelan government, stating, “The interim government of Rodríguez is still the mafia. They may have another name, but they are the mafia.”
Machado’s statements come amid shifting international dynamics, including normalizing relations between the United States and the Venezuelan government under President Donald Trump. The role Machado will play in a post-Maduro Venezuela remains uncertain.
U.S. Engagement and Regional Diplomacy
President Trump initially questioned Machado’s ability to lead, but reportedly softened his stance after she symbolically presented him with her Nobel Peace Prize medal in January. “We are talking to her, maybe we can get her involved somehow, I would like that,” Trump said following the meeting.
On the regional front, Machado has ruled out an immediate meeting with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, urging him to take a firm stance against the Venezuelan government during his scheduled meeting with President Trump this Tuesday. She stated plainly, “There can be no middle ground. You cannot be with God and the devil.”
Currently residing outside of Venezuela since leaving hiding in December, Machado has not yet set a date for her return. She did express a desire to visit Colombia, stating, “I’m dying to go to Colombia,” and indicated a visit could precede her return to Venezuela.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Machado to offer to meet with Delcy Rodríguez?
Machado stated the offer was contingent on establishing a “schedule for a transition” following the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. military forces on January 3rd.
What is Machado’s position on the 2024 Venezuelan presidential elections?
Machado’s opposition does not recognize the results of the 2024 Venezuelan presidential elections, and she insists any transition process must be based on the recognition of that date.
What is Machado’s current relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump?
President Trump initially questioned Machado’s leadership capabilities but has since engaged in discussions with her, even after she presented him with a Nobel Peace Prize medal.
As Venezuela faces a potentially pivotal moment, what role will regional actors like Colombia play in shaping the future of the country?
